Permafrost Hollows dawn is a feeling

To her utmost relief, the woman seemed kind enough, and not too aggressive. Her gentle voice whistled through Lily's ears, and the dark sprite relaxed the slightest bit, taking a deep breath before speaking again. "S-sorry," she said again, trying to keep composed. "Uh. . .B-Bracken Sanc--Sanctuary. Just n-north of here."

She cocked her head, giving the woman a long look. Searching, in the least hostile way she could. "What g-group are you with?" Lily queried, eyes drifting up the mountain. "I d-don't remember anyone b-being here, l-last I came."

The girl took another inhale, breathing in the woman's scent. There was nothing familiar in it; it must be a new group, come to settle in the taiga. Lily hoped that they were friendly. The last thing the Sanctuary needed was a pack prone to violence or disarray settling right on their doorstep. She did not relish breaking that news to Ali--not in the least.